NAVAIR
Case Study - ManTech's History of Aviation Support to NAVAIR
Naval Air Systems Command (“NAVAIR”)’s mission is to advance and sustain the U.S. Navy’s aviation capabilities to ensure our warfighters’ success and their safe return home.
NAVAIR provides full life-cycle support of naval aviation aircraft, weapons and systems operated by Sailors and Marines. This support includes research, design, development and systems engineering; acquisition; test and evaluation; training facilities and equipment; repair and modification; and in-service engineering and logistics support.
Safety and Reliability
With aviation, there is little margin for error – tiny mistakes can quickly cascade into disaster. Therefore, safety and reliability are paramount, and ManTech’s first priority – our system safety specialists ensure that system safety is built inherently into all of our work. This is evident in our work at Pax River, Maryland, where we do reliability & maintainability engineering and systems safety engineering – and flight test engineering, where we analyze airflow effects on aircraft and weapons systems.
Cybersecurity
Cybersecurity is also integral to ManTech’s DNA and is seamlessly woven throughout all of our work. For instance, ManTech’s cyber range, ACRE®, provides virtual copies of the network and systems, enabling “hardware-in-the-loop” cyber hardening for unclassified networks. This enables testing for NAVAIR systems without the need to rent time at the National Cyber Range Complex.
Specific Capabilities and Programs
ManTech has supported NAVAIR across a broad range of work for more than 30 years. See below for specific capabilities and programs.
Test and Evaluation, NAVAIR (Air 5.1.6)
ManTech has supported flight test and evaluation for more than 30 years. As the prime contractor, ManTech’s technical and engineering personnel supported integration, test, and evaluation of ordnance equipment, weapons systems, propulsion systems, mechanical systems, air-vehicle subsystems, structures, shipboard interoperability, aircraft flying qualities and performance, air-traffic control and landing systems, and mission-planning systems.
We delivered technical and engineering support for weapons/stores; evaluated armament systems’ mechanical, electrical, and electronic systems; and performed research, development, and test and evaluation (RDT&E) of ordnance equipment.
We supported future naval aircraft requirements—including the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter (JSF), F-35 Joint Aircraft Model (JAM), Common Unguided Weapon Calculation Engine (CUWCE), and F-35 Joint Safe Escape Analysis Solution (JSEAS)—to ensure fleet acceptance during F-35 system development. We planned and executed T&E of the Weaponeering and Stores Planning (WASP) system used on most weaponized naval aircraft.
Our team developed software and hardware test packages and performed test execution, verification and validation (V&V), documentation and analysis of system deficiencies, and deployment and delivery of fleet documentation.
Engineering and Technical Services, NAWCAD (AIR 5.1.6)
Under this contract ManTech, as prime, provides ongoing (30+ years) Flight Test Engineering services to the Manned and Unmanned Air Vehicle Evaluation Division, NAWCAD.
This work includes development of software and hardware test packages, test execution, V&V, documentation and analysis of system deficiencies, deployment of fleet documentation and delivery to the fleet.
The work performed with modeling and simulation software mirrors OET&E and PGC requirements of the solicitation. Development of structural analysis technical reports, weapons employment planning data, TEMP, engineering papers, and safety analysis reports demonstrate Fleet Support engineering requirements in the solicitation. The work performed on manned and unmanned air vehicles includes development of software and hardware test packages, test execution, V&V, documentation and analysis of system deficiencies, deployment of fleet documentation and delivery to the fleet.
This support has encompassed carrier-based tactical aircraft, shipboard-capable vertical/short takeoff and landing aircraft, maritime support aircraft, unmanned aircraft, tactical weapons systems, support systems and equipment, and aircraft launch and recovery equipment. ManTech support includes services across all the PEOs and in-service and developmental programs, such as F/A-18-series aircraft, V-22-series aircraft, H-60, P-8, MQ-4C, F-35, H-53K, and other systems and subsystems in the acquisition process.
Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Support, PMA-262
On this program, ManTech provides support for Naval Surface Warfare Center Crane Division (NSWC) Crane and Program Manager, Air (PMA) 262, 263, 266 and 268.
The mission of NSWC Crane is to provide acquisition engineering, in-service engineering, sensor integration, and technical support for sensors, electronics, electronic warfare, and special warfare capabilities. NSWC Crane also works to apply component and system-level product and industrial engineering to surface sensors, strategic systems, special warfare devices, electronic warfare and information operations systems, and other responsibilities, as assigned by the Commander, Naval Surface Warfare Center.
NSWC Crane’s Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Combat Systems, Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (C5ISR), Integration Division (JXWP), and Electro-Optic Technology Division (JXQ) receives and executes funding from NAVAIR, Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA), the United States Air Force (USAF), and Naval Air Warfare Aircraft Division (NAWCAD). Under this program, ManTech works with NSWC Crane, who is the engineering and depot support for the Navy.
Our role is to study, analyze, provide advice, research, and develop deliverables to advance scientific and technical information (STI), and provide advanced engineering to replace aging or obsolete components and systems and to install state-of-the-art technology to enhance the capabilities of aircraft mission systems for the UAS.
This includes work for the lead activity, the Persistent Maritime Unmanned Systems Program Office (PMA-262), primarily focusing on the MQ-4C Triton UAS. Support for other UAS program requirements may include: the MQ-8 Fire Scout System supported by the Multi-Mission Tactical Unmanned UAS Program Office (PMA 266), the MQ-25 Unmanned Air System program supported by Unmanned Carrier Aviation program office (PMA 268), and United States Air Force (USAF) Unmanned Platforms.
The goal is to develop the next generation of Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR), Electronic Warfare (EW), mission systems and survivability systems for UAS. This effort provides quick-reaction analyses and engineering analyses to support total lifecycle management of advanced UAS technology and includes all aspects of logistical support required to meet operational demands. Due to the unique nature of these next-generation ISR and EW systems, the lifecycle support needs of these platforms are not replicated in any other NAVAIR or NAVSEA activities.
PMA-262 is responsible for the development, production, fielding, and sustainment of the Navy's high-altitude, long-endurance unmanned aerial systems (UAS). Its program portfolio includes the MQ-4C Triton UAS, Advanced Sensors and Technology, and International Programs. Work for PMA-262 under this TO focuses primarily on the MQ-4C Triton UAS, which will provide combat information to operational and tactical users such as Expeditionary Strike Groups (ESGs), Carrier Strike Groups (CSGs) and Joint Forces Maritime Component Commanders (JFMCCs).
The MQ-4C supports intelligence preparation of the maritime battlespace by providing a more continuous source of information to maintain the Common Operational and Tactical Picture (COTP). PMA 262 requires comprehensive integration, assessment, and certification of these upgrades to ensure that warfighters receive the enhanced combat capabilities they need to accomplish their mission. In addition, ManTech ensures robust cybersecurity via our ACRE cyber range testing and training and complete software integration.
Other UAS Programs within the scope of ManTech’s program support include the MQ-8 Fire Scout System, the RQ-21 Blackjack, and the the MQ-25 Stingray.
Supported by the Multi-Mission Tactical Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) Program Office PMA 266, the MQ-8 is designed to provide reconnaissance, situational awareness, and precision targeting support for ground, air, and sea forces. The system comprises MQ-8 Fire Scout air vehicles (MQ-8B or MQ-8C), mission control systems, and associated control handling and support equipment. The system can operate from any suitably equipped air-capable ships or land bases.
The Unmanned Carrier Aviation program office (PMA 268) is responsible for managing the MQ-25 Stingray program. The MQ-25 System comprises three major architectural segments: an Air Segment (AS), a Control System & Connectivity (CS&C) Segment, and a Carrier (CVN) Segment. AS includes the MQ-25 UAS, which is composed of the MQ-25A Stingray air vehicle and associated support and handling equipment including the deck handling system, spares, and repair materials.
CS&C includes the Unmanned Carrier Aviation (UCA) Mission Control System (UMCS) and its associated communication equipment; the Distributed Common Ground Station-Navy (DCGS-N) mission support functionality; all network based interfaces and routing equipment required to control the Stingray; and all required modifications to existing networks and Command, Control, Communications, Computers, and Intelligence (C4I) system infrastructure.
CVN is composed of spaces for CVN ships allocated to UCA as well as installed ship systems and modifications necessary to interface with the Air and CS&C segments. CVN systems important to the MQ-25 include aircraft launch and recovery systems, data dissemination systems (including radio terminals and antennas), and deck operations systems.
Support for the Maritime Patrol and Reconnaissance Aircraft (MPRA) Airborne Multi Intelligence Special Missions (AMISM) Program Office (PMA-290)
In support of NSWC Crane and the PMA-290, ManTech provides advanced engineering to replace aging or obsolete components and systems and to install state-of-the-art technology to enhance the capabilities of aircraft mission systems for the P-3C Orion, P-8A Poseidon, P-8A Poseidon Quick Reaction Capability (QRC), and EP-3 (signals reconnaissance version of P-3 Orion).
We support the development of the next generation of intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) and electronic warfare (EW) mission systems and survivability systems for the MPRA fleet.
Our role is to support these aircraft in a broad range of project tasking: program management; systems engineering; software planning; hardware conceptualization, design engineering, and rapid prototyping; integration, test, and evaluation; sustainment analysis, maintenance analysis, training; and field service.
We bring engineering design, analysis, and development support to P-8A Poseidon, P-3C Orion, and P-8 QRC systems, along with test and integration support required for this proposed program.
We manage and perform this $260M program to support global needs for the warfighter to support ISR and EW modernization. We are currently supporting 52 projects and managing 100+ team personnel.
Support to NSWC Crane for E-2/C-2 Airborne Tactical Manned Reconnaissance Aircraft ISR&T in support of PMA-231
In support of NSWC Crane the objective of this effort is to modify and upgrade legacy technology or install new technology for aircraft mission systems to address capability, readiness and sustainment gaps for the E-2C Hawkeye, E-2D Advanced Hawkeye and the C-2A Greyhound aircraft. The goal is to develop the next generation of advanced systems or sustainment approaches for legacy systems until they reach sundown.
Some examples include:
- Air Vehicle Systems
- Power and Propulsion Systems
- Communication, Navigation & Identification Friend of Foe IFF (CNI) (including Navigation Warfare (NAVWAR), Satellite Communications (SATCOM), Universal Serial Bus Embedded National Tactical Receiver (USB ENTR), Communications, Navigation, Surveillance / Air Traffic Management (CNS/ATM), High Frequency HF Radio, Intercommunication Set (ICS), Automated Identification System (AIS), and Automatic Dependent Surveillance - Broadcasts (ADS-B))
- Mission Systems and Software (including Mission Computer and Displays (MCD), Integrated Navigation Control Display System (INCDS), Mission Computer / Advanced Control Indicator System (MC/ACIS), Joint Mission Planning System (JMPS), and Joint Tactical Information Distribution System (JTIDS))
- Sensor Systems (including E-2D APY-9 Radar System, E-2C APS-145 Radar Systems, Counter Electronic Attack (CEA) APY-9 Radar Systems, Sensor Netting, Electronic Support Measures (ESM), and Combat Identification (CID))
- Networking & Data Links (including Tactical Targeting Network Technology (TTNT), Joint Tactical Radio System (JTRS), Secret Internet Protocol Router (SIPR) Chat, Iridium Chat, Cooperative Engagement Capability (CEC), and Accelerated Mid-term Interoperability Improvement Project (AMIIP))
Reliability, Maintainability Engineering and Technical Support (R&M and Systems Safety)
This support has encompassed carrier-based tactical aircraft, shipboard-capable vertical/short takeoff and landing aircraft, maritime support aircraft, unmanned aircraft, tactical weapons systems, support systems and equipment, and aircraft launch and recovery equipment.
ManTech support includes services across all the Program Executive Offices (PEO) and in-service and developmental programs, such as F/A-18-series aircraft, V-22-series aircraft, H-60, P-8, MQ-4C, F-35, CH-53K, and other systems and subsystems in the acquisition process.
ManTech was awarded a sole-source bridge contract at completion of the previous contract and is entering the final year of the follow-on Reliability and Maintainability Engineering and Technical Support Contract, covering June 2017 through June 2022.
Life-Cycle Product Support Data, IETM & Associated Technology Support tor PMA-261 and Collaborating Programs (H-53 Tech Data)
ManTech supports the mission of the NAVAIR Heavy Lift Helicopters Program Office (PMA-261). PMA-261, a program under the Program Executive Officer, Air ASW Assault and Special Missions Programs, supports multiple H-53 variants including the CH-53E, MH-53E and the CH-53K helicopters.
The H-53 assault support missions include the lift and movement of cargo and troops/passengers; the tactical recovery of downed or damaged aircraft; and the lift of heavy, bulky equipment and supplies by external suspension.
NAVAIR's PMA-261 manages the cradle-to-grave procurement, development, support, fielding and disposal of the entire family of H-53 helicopters and collaborating programs. Throughout the management of the H-53 product lines, PMA-261 has requirements for the development and integration associated with the platform technical data and sustainment systems.
ManTech's primary role on this program is to study, analyze, advise, research, and develop deliverables to advance DS-related scientific and technical information (STI) through the application of knowledge and resources in achieving PMA-261’s, and, where appropriate, its shared community of NAVAIR/rotorcraft platform management offices.
We conduct research and analysis in support of the multiple rotorcrafts platforms, including the C/MH 53 and collaborating programs, for both the PMA level and Fleet-deployed logistics information technology and technical data products found during all phases of the DoDI 5000.02-defined platform life-cycle and provide the necessary updates, migration, integration, and implementation support.
The goal is to provide the U.S. Government with technical data products including interactive electronic technical manuals (IETMs), common source data tools compliant with NAVAIR/DoD Service hosting, and integration capabilities for logistics technical data products into PMA required Aviation Logistics Environment (ALE) systems to enhance the maintainability of rotarcraft while reducing the overall cost, improving time to repair, increasing operational availability (Ao), and decreasing the total logistics footprint required.
A key element objective of the tasks for both analytical efforts and derivative development tasks is to ensure the effective and optimized integration of legacy technical data into solutions including maximizing the use of automated conversion technologies (when possible) to reduce schedule risks and decrease variance in data migration.
Navy Communications Electronics Support
On this Communications-Electronics (C-E) Support program, ManTech provides enterprise support for emergency radio systems and base facility infrastructure networks and systems for DoD, DHS, and other U.S. Government (USG) customers, bringing a broad range of understanding of DoD, APCO P25, and other interoperability standards for radio and infrastructure communications.
ManTech supports a wide range of NAWCAD Special Communications Mission Division (SCMS) requirements, and has supported a broad range of DoD, DHS, and other national security customers for communications and infrastructure systems.
SCMS’s mission is the design, development, integration, test and evaluation, certification, lifecycle, and logistics support of electronic and communications systems, subsystems, and equipment used by U.S. Navy, Army, Air Force, and other DoD and USG agencies.
On this program, we support SCMS customers: Commander Navy Installations Command (CNIC), U.S. Naval Forces Central Command (NAVCENT), U.S. Marine Corps (USMC), U.S. Marine Forces Central Command (MARCENT), National Guard, U.S. Capitol Police (USCP), Air Force Special Operations Command (AFSOC), Air Force Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance Agency (AF-ISR), Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), and Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).
ManTech supports customers in the National Capital Region (NCR) and CONUS/OCONUS with engineering and planning support for interoperability in USG emergency communications needs and environments.
Our program support has included emergency radio communication systems, Land Mobile Radio (LMR), Radio Frequency (RF) systems, base telecommunications infrastructure systems and networks, high-speed wireless systems, transport infrastructure, and conference systems.
Our radio and LMR program experience has included UHF/VHF radio systems (Harris and Motorola), multiband radio systems, RF antenna systems, UHF SATCOM systems and antennas, and MPU5 Wave-Relay Mobile Ad Hoc Networking (MANET) radios.
In support of RF Analysis, we use tools for radio planning and spectrum engineering, including Radio Analysis & Propagation Tool Repository (RAPTR) software and ADTI HTZ warfare software, as well as ManTech-developed radio planning tools.
ManTech has provided technical services for SCMS customer facilities throughout CONUS and OCONUS, including secure conference sites for the Navy SCMS, U.S. Capitol Police, FBI, and conference facilities for the Joint Worldwide Intelligence Communications System (JWICS).
ManTech supports this program out of its Lexington Park, MD, 25,000-sq.-ft. integration facility with systems laboratories.
We have also used ManTech’s Stafford, VA, facility for cyber range cybersecurity testing on this program. ManTech’s Stafford campus includes multiple facilities within 1 mile of USMC Quantico Gate, including the Integrated Team Solutions Facility (ITSFAC), a 45,000-sq.-ft. facility and a 15,000-sq.-ft. Center for Technology (C4T) with leading-edge capabilities for cybersecurity, test and evaluation, and production.